The Map

TripeOn your deathbed, you will look into a loved one's eyes and beg for just a few more hours on Earth, the hours you spent reading The Map.This is utter tripe. Utter, utter tripe. It will take you forever to read because it is so, so boring. Dialogue especially is ludicrous - this writer has absolutely no ear for the way people speak. Nearly every conversation between characters is simply extended exposition for a story devoid of intrigue or interest. The characters are the most cardboard of stereotypes drawn from every terrible TV show you've ever seen.Please don't waste your life on this turgid crap. You will never get these hours back.

The premise of the story is good I think, but the development of the relationships between the main pov characters is totally implausible! "Hi, we've hid this secret in our family in this far out village for 5 centuries - but Hey! your an American who fought for the IB - what can we tell you?" This is by far the least weakness in this VERY confused story! I would give it a big miss. The story rambles with poor connections and no development of the main themes. And BTW, I don't think it is at all reasonable Mr Learner, to con people who have paid good money for your book, to an internet site where you can "learn what happens next" but only if you subscribe to the author's updates. Crass, stupid and disrespectful of the reader - which pretty much sums up my feelings about the book.Avoid

Many books promise a fantastic climax and then deliver a damp squib. This was one. I won't divulge the climax as that will spoil the story for those who are currently reading it. In its defence, the book was very well written, the characters interesting and likeable.The book tells two stories. One from medieval times and one just after WII. Even though the ending was disappointing, the book is worth reading provided you are interested in Kaballah / mysticism and ancient codes or prophecies. The author has obviously put a lot of time and effort into researching the themes and content, its just a shame that the climax wasn't more believable.Is it worth reading:Yes.Should I read something else instead:No.

Very intriguing

This book took me 100 pages before I started to think it was going to be a really good read. It didn't turn out to be one, although there were some parts that got really interesting. I think the author lost their way writing this book. Such a shame as it could have become a great book.

It is very rare that I stop reading a book mid way, but The Map just did not do it for me. The plot was slow and the story seemed to take ages to develop.Boing from start to mid way - could not be bothered to finish.

I found this book enjoyable and did not notice any historical inaccuracies (as mentioned by some reviewers) as i really dont know much about the time the book is set. I did think, however, it was missing something overall, i was asking myself a few questions as some other reviewers. I thought it was a good, thrilling read, if you take it at face value and dont over think the story.

Having enjoyed Sphinx, I was happy to find this book lived up to my expectations as a most enjoyable and interesting read. Have made a note to go to the website and download the extra chapter as recommended!